WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Nuclear Security Administration’s (NNSA) Security Improvements Project (SIP) was recently completed ahead of schedule and approximately $20 million under its original budget of $72 million.

SIP upgraded security at Y-12 by replacing existing alarm stations and access control systems with Argus, a comprehensive security system developed by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.

“Maintaining a safe and secure deterrent is one of NNSA’s most important responsibilities,” said NNSA Acting Chief of Defense Nuclear Security Michael Lempke. “SIP is a continuation of NNSA’s goal to use the best, most modern security technology to keep the nation’s nuclear weapons and material secure.”

“NNSA and the SIP Team demonstrated the power of teamwork in delivering this project under budget and ahead of schedule,” said NNSA Associate Administrator for Acquisition and Project Management Bob Raines. “The SIP is yet another example that final metrics of cost and schedule can be achieved when clear expectations are set, the federal and contractor site and headquarters teams are aligned, and all parties accept accountability for their role in project delivery.”

The SIP also demonstrated an outstanding safety record. SIP has logged more than 300,000 hours (approximately 3,800 workdays) over 10 years without a lost workday due to injury.

SIP joins the growing list of projects being successfully delivered by the NNSA. Over the past three years, NNSA has delivered a $725 million project portfolio approximately $50 million—or 7 percent—under budget. NNSA has been recognized by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) and Congress for progress made in these areas, and as a result has been removed from GAO’s high risk list for projects less than $750 million.

Established by Congress in 2000, NNSA is a semi-autonomous agency within the U.S. Department of Energy responsible for enhancing national security through the military application of nuclear science. NNSA maintains and enhances the safety, security, reliability and performance of the U.S. nuclear weapons stockpile without nuclear testing; works to reduce global danger from weapons of mass destruction; provides the U.S. Navy with safe and effective nuclear propulsion; and responds to nuclear and radiological emergencies in the U.S. and abroad.